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updated 08.06.08
Symbols and Colors Used on Pysanky
Symbols
Ukrainian Easter eggs are often very geometric in nature. Motifs in designs are abstract representations of actual objects, creatures, etc. This makes it a lot easier on those of us who can't draw well! :)
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| Ladders prosperity, or prayer. |
Pine Needles health, stamina, eternal youth. |
Crosses Christ, or the Four Corners of the World. |
Wheat wishes for good health and a good harvest. |
The Sun and Stars life, fortune, growth. |
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| Deer, Horses, and/or Rams wealth and prosperity. |
Fish Christianity |
Curls defense or protection. |
Roses love, caring. |
Poppies beloved Ukrainian art motif, symbolizing joy and beauty. |
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| Triangles trinities, eg.: air, fire, & water; the Father, Son, & Holy Spirit; heaven, earth, & hell. |
The Saw fire, life-giving heat (also known as Wolves' teeth, symbolizing loyalty and wisdom). |
Birds fulfillment of wishes, and fertility. The bird is always shown at rest, never flying. |
Nets Christ's reference to becoming "fishers of people". |
Ribbons everlasting life, and water. |
Colors
Here are some of the symbolic meanings for colors used in decorating pysanky:
Sources: Ukrainian Design Book 1, Ukrainian Design Book 2, Eggs Beautiful.